Boys and Girls Clubs celebrates 20th anniversary

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Bandera County celebrated their twentieth anniversary on Saturday, September 18, at the Club in Bandera.

The participants were entertained by live music from a number of local groups who donated their time. Food, games, a corn hole tournament and a bounce house rounded out the festivities. Several community organizations also set up carnival games and prizes for the event. A pulled pork sandwich lunch was provided for purchase as well as a silent auction and door prizes.

Greg Parker, former Bandera Club Executive Director and current na tional consultant for the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, said, “I will say that this was the best job I’ve ever had in my life. With places like this, over 150 Bandera youth are served by quality staff.”

Parker enjoyed the day and liked visiting with former Boys and Girls Clubs participants.

“This is a great event for families and shows the true meaning of what Boys and Girls Club is all about,” said Kayleigh Page from Wells Fargo Bank.

Master of Ceremonies Ron Gherman kept the party going by introducing the bands and announcing the drawings for the party.

The event even had an after party for adults at the 11th Street Bar later in the evening.

Executive Director Amy Ouellette commented, “The club is doing what it takes to create great lives for our youth.”

Sponsors of the club are Biker Rallies of Texas, Buddy’s Water Well and Septic Service, 11th Street Cowboy Bar and the Best Western of Bandera.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Bandera would like to thank Lee Winwright, Chris Valdez, Josh Small, Seth Ralph, Tanner Scott, Lanelle Evans, Scott Baker, Julie Baker and Kevan Scott for providing the amazing music for the event.

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Bandera are housed at Alkek Elementary, Hill Country Elementary and at the Teen Center in Bandera.

The clubs provide pro grams like the Power Hour for homework assistance and the Six Pillars of Character Program. Programs like SMARTMoves help club members avoid dangerous situations and empower them to make smart decisions in life.

The Torch Club teaches leadership skills and helps the participants with running the Youth Board. The Clubs also sponsor sports team participation for elementary and middle school youth.

For more information on the Boys and Girls Clubs of Bandera go to their website at www.bgcbanderacounty.com.